5 Ways To Get More Sleep As A New Parent

Could you have imagined anything better than coming home with that new baby? Those tiny perfect little toes, that intoxicating new baby smell…. that noise it keeps making while you are trying to sleep!

Trying to stay caught up with regular sleep can be very difficult at the best of times, adding a newborn baby can make it nearly impossible. Here are some helpful tips for new parents.

When Baby Sleeps, Sleep!

According to Denise Mann of WebMD, use this time for yourself. This is the best way to catch some well-needed sleep. Even twenty minutes is better than nothing and if your baby will sleep for a few hours, you can, as well. Use this time wisely, for yourself, not cleaning up the house or worrying about other tasks that need doing. Get the sleep you need when you can get it!

Take Turns

It’s best if you have a partner who is willing to take responsibility so try to involve them from the start. It can also help them feel more connected in those very early days. If you are starting your baby on a bottle, pump your breast milk, or teach your partner how to prepare the formula milk so you can sleep while your partner handles the middle of the night feedings. Don’t be afraid to ask help from others, as well. If people offer to help, take it! Sharing makes for a better, healthier relationship for all.

Is Baby Too Hot? Cold?

A baby’s sleeping temperature is so important. Maybe they aren’t sleeping simply because their clothing is binding or they are too hot. Also, having baby in the same room with you may ease some of the worry and stress you are having as a new parent. You may sleep better just knowing baby is there next to you, in those very important early days.

Baby Centre have some very helpful tips from real parents just like you, having the same concerns as you. Feel free to add your own advice, as well.

Self-Soothing

Teaching baby to soothe himself will not be easy, but well worth it. Setting up a routine, like a regular bedtime, will get baby used to going to sleep. The bath, the changing into pajamas and regular time for bed set up structure and a set of rules that make it easier. Also, don’t rush to pick up baby everytime he cries, allow him to stop and settle on his own. This will be hard at first, but better in the long run.

Be Good To You!

Do not feel guilty about treating yourself. You do not have to sacrifice your own pleasures for baby. Treat yourself to a spa day, lunch out with friends or a new accessory to accompany you and baby out on the next play date. There is no reason you can’t be a good mother and stylish at the same time. Have a look at these gorgeous changing bags from Kerikit.

Of course you will need to find what works best for you and your baby. Hopefully I have provided some direction for you as a new parent and you can piece together the method that works for you. As always, don’t let your sleep deprivation get too far ahead of you and if it does become serious, always consult your medical professional.

This is such a special time for you and your newborn, you owe it to yourself to enjoy it. It goes by so quickly.

Bio: Sarah is the Editor of Sleepy Deep. Feeling the repercussions of being an irregular sleeper for far too long, she decided to do something about it. She learned why sleep is so important and how to maximize it, and is now helping others who are struggling to find their right sleep routine.